What A difference a Year Makes

I?d imagine that, after his crushing fifth round victory over Darleys Perez, Anthony Crolla is still on cloud nine.

I?d also imagine that amongst the boxing fraternity there?s never been a fighter who has received so many good luck messages ahead of a fight and so many congratulations after what might have been perceived as an unlikely victory.

Less than a year ago the nation wept for Anthony, his chance of a world title fight was in ruins after he?d interrupted burglars and, for his troubles, received a fractured skull and a broken ankle.

Such were his injuries there was talk that Crolla was unlikely to fight and was lucky to still be alive.

‘The difference between how I feel now and last Christmas is a million miles apart.

‘Then I was sat on the couch with my leg in plaster. I was skin and bones because I lost so much weight through medication.

‘It was up in the air whether I’d be able to fight again. This Christmas I’ll have the belt under the tree with a lot to look forward to next year.

‘I made a promise in the hospital bed that I’d come back stronger.

‘I came so close to losing it all I wanted to make sure of every chance. I was given a second chance. I didn’t want to waste that. In the rematch I didn’t want to leave anything to chance.’

And as for what lies ahead, there is already talk of a mega-fight, against an unknown opponent at Manchester United?s ground, Old Trafford, something that fills Crolla with excitement with the fighter further remarking,

‘I could never imagine fighting at Old Trafford.?

Then again, twelve months ago I bet Anthony Crolla could never imagine he?d have the WBA lightweight belt to hang proudly in his front room.